Holiday concert to benefit Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center

Professional vocalists, many with their own albums, will perform at the "Keith Borden & Friends: Cabaret of Hope" holiday celebration Dec. 9 at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center.

"Audiences can expect to be blown away by the caliber of talent from these professional vocalists from the L.A. cabaret scene," said Fred Helsel, assistant manager of the arts center, co-producer of the event with Keith Borden of Keibord Entertainment Productions.

Many of the artists have released albums, been featured in other recordings or can be heard on TV and film, Helsel said.

The Simi Valley Cultural Association, through an umbrella organization, Actors Repertory Theater of Simi Valley, supports arts and arts education in Simi Valley, said L.J. Stevens, president of the association.

Borden, who has appeared in stage productions including "To Kill a Mockingbird," will join national recording artists Jean Shy, Debbie Goodman, Ali B. Olmo and Karen McClain at the show. Additional artists to perform include Gabe Gonzales and Lori Lee Gordon.

"Keith has performed on our stage in several productions but hasn't appeared in concert. His concerts are well-known and well-attended fundraisers," said David Ralphe, general manager of the arts center. "Not only does Keith have a world-class voice, he brings together friends who are famous in the jazz and gospel world."

The show will be hosted by John Moschitta Jr., who is the "world's fastest talker," according to Guinness World Records. Also appearing will be Don Swayze of "True Blood" and "Days of Our Lives" and Marilyn Sue Perry of "Enchanted" and "Boardwalk Empire."

"The audience can expect a wonderful eclectic mix of vocal performances as well as instrumental presentations," Stevens said. "Our goal is to continue to raise awareness of the facility, as well as help the Simi Valley Cultural Association continue to offer low-cost arts presentations and educational programs especially geared to our local youth."

The arts center is a beautifully restored historic venue with outstanding sound and acoustics, Helsel said. "Seating only 200, there is no bad seat in the house."

If you go

What: "Keith Borden & Friends: Cabaret of Hope"

When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9

Where: Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center, 3050 E. Los Angeles Ave.

Cost: Preferred seating is $25 and includes a dessert bar reception. All other seats are $20.